Study on Performance of Subgrade with Jute Fibers

The performance of pavement depends on the strength of subgrade. The weak subgrade results into greater thickness of pavement. This research aims to improve of subgrade strength by reinforcing soil with jute fibers. The percentages of jute fibers taken are 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75% and 1% with aspect ratios 8.33 and 16.67. Soaked California Bearing Ratio (CBR) was performed to obtain values for different percentages of jute fibers. The CBR value of natural soil increases, when it was reinforced with jute fibers. This increase is substantial at fiber content 0.50% and 0.75% of aspect ratio 8.33 and 16.67 respectively. The thickness of various layer of pavement was carried out as per IRC:37-2001 and the pavement thickness chart provided by the Department of Road (DoR). Cost analysis was done only for the pavement thickness determined as per the thickness chart provided by DoR. There was maximum reduction in cost at fiber content 0.50% and 0.75% for aspect ratio 8.33 and 16.67 respectively. Reinforcement of soil with jute fibers is economically advantages and is observed to be a viable solution for the construction of roads with weak subgrade.